The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Semester Zero initiative will begin on Monday 9
January.
The initiative is focused on all first-year students – local and regional students joining the
University in 2023.
Commencing January 9, future USP students will have the opportunity to experience what
tertiary education is like for the next five weeks.
This one-of-a-kind initiative that provides a free online orientation for provisional and potential
first-year students to learn more about USP and get a “feel” of university life.
Semester Zero is a timely initiative offered only by USP for her students and will be hosted on
USP’s Moodle platform.
It is creatively designed to simulate academic tools that students will utilise as part of their
studies at USP.
All incoming first year students across the region are encouraged to take advantage of this free
initiative and partake from the safety and comfort of their homes.
Director CFL, Dr Rajni Chand said as students await their external exam results, they will be
able to at least get a glimpse of the kind of programmes on offer at USP and the kind of
environment they will have to study in.
“This type of initiative allows young people from receiving the much-needed orientation,
nurturing, and support. It allows them from learning about the University and its learning and
teaching environment, as well as its various campuses, services, and facilities, which is why
Semester Zero was created,” she said.
USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia stated it was an honour to see
Semester Zero continue after its inaugural launch and great feedback from students last year. It
also enabled students to experience the unique university life from their homes.

“We have created an online learning platform that will not only provide all of the necessary
information about USP, but will also provide additional introductory literacy, numeracy, and
digital skills through games, quizzes, notes, and study guides,” he added.
“We must think creatively in order to ensure that our people are connected but also to provide
meaningful transitions to all of our prospective students, regardless of their location,” Professor
Ahluwalia said.
He also thanked the entire team for their hard work and dedication.
Semester Zero 2023 will be officially commence on next Monday, the 9th of January. Students
can access all information about accessing Semester Zero on www.usp.ac.fj/semesterzero .
Meanwhile, USP’s admissions are now open. New applicants or those resuming studies can now
apply for admission for Semester 1, 2023. For more information or academic counselling, visit a
USP Campus near you or contact Student Administrative Services at asksas@usp.ac.fj